Letter From the President

Resilience. Grit. Perseverance. Mettle. Gumption. These are all words that have fallen in and out of usage to describe attributes we all need when things get tough. We have certainly learned this year how tough things can be. Even without the immediate challenge we face dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all tested and challenged.

We do not pretend that Culver-Stockton College is a place to be protected from the trials and tribulations of the world. Actually, the 12+3 curriculum devoted to experiential learning is very much intended to place students right into the heart of the world – whether here in the tri-state area or across the globe. It is our goal to equip students with the confidence that whatever comes their way, they are prepared intellectually, personally and spiritually to handle these challenges. In fact, we hope students are not only prepared but also ready to lead others in handling these challenges.

The stories featured in this issue of the Chronicle are all about ways in which Culver-Stockton students and alumni have responded with grit, perseverance, and yes, gumption, to survive and even thrive in a difficult world.

As an institution, we are doing the same. We have not ceased teaching; we are teaching by delivering content in high impact, creative ways. We have not cut back programs, but instead, are expanding to provide students with the skills they need to compete for high quality jobs. And we are not backing away from investing in our future, but, rather, accelerating the promise of being the Midwest’s premier experiential learning college.

Culver-Stockton College has been challenged throughout history. But our ability to weather these storms, to thrive in spite of the challenges, comes from the strong sense of community and willingness to help one another. And so, we take the challenges our students and alumni face personally. Our commitment to student success, financial support and excellence are meant to give students a helping hand. We know that our students graduate ready to take on the challenges of our age. It does not matter how daunting these challenges appear; the spirit of the Wildcat is to take it on.

So, here’s to that Wildcat spirit and here’s to Culver-Stockton! Go Wildcats!

Dr. Douglas B. Palmer President